How to Prepare Bhatura Dough: A Step-by-Step Guide
Bhatura, a popular Indian bread, is a must-try for anyone looking to explore the rich culinary heritage of Indian cuisine. Made with a unique dough, bhatura is a fluffy, airy bread that pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes, from spicy curries to sweet desserts. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing bhatura dough, ensuring that you achieve the perfect texture and flavor for your homemade bhatura.
Ingredients
Before you start, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1/2 cup warm water (adjust as needed)
Instructions
1.
Combine the dry ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2.
Make a well in the center:
Create a well in the center of the dry ingredients by pushing the flour to the sides with your fingers. This will create a space for the water and oil to be added later.
3.
Add the ghee or oil:
Pour the ghee or oil into the well. Ghee adds a rich, nutty flavor to the dough, while oil will work as a substitute if ghee is not available.
4.
Add the warm water:
Gradually pour the warm water into the well, stirring the mixture with a spoon. Begin with a small amount of water and add more as needed to reach a soft, pliable dough consistency.
5.
Knead the dough:
Transfer the dough onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a little more water.
6.
Let the dough rest:
Cover the dough with a damp cloth or plastic wrap and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to work with when shaping the bhatura.
7.
Shape the dough:
Once the dough has rested, divide it into equal-sized portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a disc shape.
8.
Prepare the batter:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of water, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1 tablespoon of oil. This batter will be used to cook the bhatura on the griddle.
9.
Cook the bhatura:
Heat a griddle or flat pan over medium heat. Dip the flattened dough into the batter, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Place the dough on the griddle and cook until it puffs up and turns golden brown on one side. Flip and cook the other side until it’s also golden brown.
10.
Serve:
Serve the bhatura hot, with your favorite curry or chutney.
Now that you know how to prepare bhatura dough, you can enjoy this delicious Indian bread at home. Happy cooking!
